Classic Christmas! December 21, 2010

Last year at this time, we were recuperating from the massive undertaking of designing the master bedroom and loggia for the 2009 Atlanta Holiday House. 

I was proud of the work we accomplished in this Show House.  We used mostly fresh greenery and florals for the decorations and decided that a classic, restrained elegance was the order of the day to coordinate with the theme of our room:  Updated Classicism With Modern Sensibility.

The fireplace was draped with fresh cedar garland.  We found that keeping a bottle of water on hand and spraying the wreath and garland on a regular basis was helpful in keeping it green throughout the month long run of the show.  If you look closely, you can see that the wreath is hung from a decorative hook that would be used to hang a light fixture, over which we placed a drapery ring for a 3″ pole.  Then, using the sheer white ribbon, Kelley fashioned a soft bow and we attached the ribbon through the ring to achieve the drop for maximum effect.  The large, lidded mercury glass urn was just the right touch to pull the eye to the fireplace. 

Here in the South, it’s not always easy to decorate with fresh greens.  Our temperatures normally hover in the mid to upper 40s and can be warmer.  Having a fresh pineapple over your door could result in it falling upon someone’s head!

However, you can decorate with fresh greenery.  I have magnolia, holly, pine and other shrubs and trees on my property.  Every year, I cut some of these and prepare a natural arrangement in a Rose Medallion bowl.  I have a collection of floral “frogs” that come in very handy at this time.  If you don’t know what a floral “frog” is, it is a device that allows one to keep flowers in place.   Natural greenery has a “natural” design to it.  Look at each branch as you choose it.  Strip anything that will be below the water line, if possible.  Allow the greenery to fall naturally in the vessel.  An uncontrived, natural arrangement is, in my opinion, the prettiest.

Each year, we purchase a live tree and there are always some branches that need to be trimmed from the bottom.  I use these branches to fashion a swag for my doors.  Simply hold the branches up to observe the drape and continue to add to the swag until you have the desired effect.  Tie them together – I used natural twine, add a bow with streamers and whatever else you wish.  For one swag, Bernie pulled a pine bough from the yard that had fallen and I added some holly branches.

Door Swag

Not only is this easy and attractive, the fresh scene of pine and fir greets you when you enter.  The only expense was the ribbon!

I think it’s important to personalize your Christmas decorations, just as you personalize your home when designing.  My decorations have been acquired over the years, some I have purchased as mementoes of places I have travelled; some have been gifts; others I have purchased myself.  Each item speaks to me of the blessings in my life and I look forward every year to unpacking and decorating my home for the Holidays.

Putting it all away is a different story!